It is a foregone conclusion that people will keep relocating from one location to the other. The reasons for this, ranges from work, to business to family and lifestyle changes. One thing that is of great importance to many people and which they will always desire to move with is their car.
Moving your vehicle from one location to another can be quite stressful especially if you do not know how to go about it. However, there is actually nothing complex about auto transport once you know what to do. The basics of cross country car shipping covers understanding auto transport, what to expect from shippers and knowing how to choose the right auto company. That is why this article will share some tips on how to choose the right company and also help you understand the whole process of auto transport.
What Does Shipping a Car Across Country Mean?
Shipping a vehicle across country means that an auto transport company has to ferry the car across significant distance. This is usually across many states or from coast to coast using auto carriers that are specially made for such purpose.
When people have to move from one part of the country to another, they need to move their belongings. This involves getting a moving company to haul their stuff to the new location. Most moving companies do not have auto shipping services. This therefore necessitates hiring an auto transport company.
Most often, moving your vehicle across many state lines requires adequate expertise and technical know-how to ensure that car arrive in good shape. If your car is a high value vehicle that has to be carried over such long distance, it is best to use enclosed carrier option to ensure absolute safety and protection for your vehicle.
Facts to Know About Cross Country Car Shipping
There are many factors that are involved in this process and it is important that you understand them so that you can have a stress free transaction. Some of these factors include the following:-
Preparing your Vehicle for Shipping
There are steps to take before you send your car for shipping and they include the following:-
- Remove every personal effect in the vehicle
- Disable alarms
- Check the fluid levels
- Note the condition of the car whether by pictures or video with written document
- Find out the required quantity of fuel to be left in the tank and comply.
Choosing the Carrier Type
There are two types of carriers used by auto transporters and they are open and enclosed carriers. The open carriers are the most commonly used and they are also the most widely and readily available and affordable. Though quite safe, these carriers do not offer protection from weather elements or road debris.
Enclosed carriers on the other hand offer additional protection to the vehicles from weather elements and road debris. They are pricier than the open carriers for obvious reasons and are recommended if your car is a high end or vintage vehicle.
Although your budget is a consideration when deciding which option to use, bear in mind the one that will give you the best value for the kind of vehicle that you are shipping.
Insurance Coverage
Every reputable auto transporter provides what is known as primary insurance for their clients but this may not be sufficient based on the terms of the policy and also the value of the vehicle you are shipping. Find out all that there is to know about the insurance so that you can decide whether to add a supplementary insurance to the deal.
Scheduling
Ensure that you book the shipping of your car in advance so that you can get your vehicle to its destination as required. This is important especially if you plan to move during peak seasons. If you fail to book ahead, you might have no option but to go with expedited shipping.
Tips for Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company
Before we wrap up this piece, find below some tips for getting the right auto transport company to use:-
- Research several options and compare prices and range of services offered.
- Confirm their legitimacy and license. Ensure you ask for the USDOT number of the company. You can also visit this site: https://www.usa.gov/ to search for the information by yourself.
- Read online reviews or get references from the company.
- Find out the extent of insurance coverage
- Find out all the charges and fees that you have to pay
- Find out the carrier options that are available
Conclusion
Shipping a car across country is something that you should take time to prepare for and also find the right company to hire. Your first thought should not be how to save money on the transaction but how to get the best service that will ensure that your car gets to its destination in one piece and on time.
We believe that the tips we have shared here will help you make an informed choice so do not forget them.
